Method of and means for measuring ligament tension
US4964862A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 31, 1989 |
| Grant date | Oct 23, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 31, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B90/36
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The novel ligament tension measuring device has a looped prosthetic ligament or sutures that surround a receptacle. The receptacle contains a positioning hole that allows a fixation pin to be inserted to obtain the optimum position for the desired process. The receptacle also has measuring devices, such as strain gauges or magnets and hall effect sensors. The method includes the steps of: preparing to attach the ligament to the bone; placing the device into the loop of the ligament at the tibia; adjusting the tension on the measuring device; temporarily attaching the ligament at the desired position; pinning the device in place; moving the knee through the entire range of motion; repositioning the device as necessary for the optimum position; removing the device, while leaving the pin in position; and proceeding with the permanent attachment of the ligament.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.